windsock
Noun: A windsock is a conical textile tube, open at both ends, which is attached to a pole or mast. It is designed to catch the wind, indicating both the wind's direction and providing a rough estimate of its speed by how fully it inflates. It is commonly used at airports, helipads, and chemical plants.
The word "windsock" is used to refer to the physical device itself. It is a compound noun, but its meaning is treated as a single unit. It is typically used in contexts related to aviation, weather observation, and safety.
- Noun:
- The pilot checked the windsock before attempting to land the small plane.
- A bright orange windsock is clearly visible at the end of the runway.
- The windsock was fully extended, indicating strong winds from the north.
- "as limp as a windsock on a calm day": An informal simile describing something that is completely slack, inactive, or without energy.
- After the long hike, his arms hung as limp as a windsock on a calm day.
- Wind cone: A synonym for windsock, often used in technical or regulatory contexts.
- Air sock: Another less common synonym.
- Drogue: A similar conical device used in aviation (e.g., for aerial refueling) or marine contexts (as a sea anchor), but not specifically for indicating wind direction on the ground.
- Wind cone
- Air sock
- Wind sleeve (less common)
While "windsock" itself is not commonly used in idioms, its behavior inspires descriptive phrases: - To flutter like a windsock: To flap or wave irregularly in the wind. - The torn flag fluttered like a windsock in the gusty breeze.
- a truncated cloth cone mounted on a mast; used (e.g., at airports) to show the direction of the wind